You don't have to be a doctor to save lives...just an advocate with the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. The Minnesota Advocacy Beat is a resource for those of you working hard to fight heart disease and stroke across MN and the country. Keep up-to-date on state policy issues, check out what is going on in the media and let us know what you are doing as a You’re the Cure advocate!

Throughout the year, our blog will feature AHA volunteer stories of survival and hope.
We know there are thousands of stories like these - thats why we want to say “Thanks” to all of you for giving your time and sharing your lives with us.
You can’t spell CURE without U! Thank you for all you do to build healthier lives free of cardiovascular disease and stroke. YOU’RE THE CURE!

When an adult has a sudden cardiac arrest, his or her survival depends greatly on immediately getting CPR from someone nearby. Unfortunately, less than 1/3 of those people who experience a cardiac arrest at home, work or in a public location get that help. Most bystanders are worried that they might do something wrong or make things worse. That’s why the AHA has simplified things.

Don’t be afraid. Your actions can only help.

It’s not normal to see an adult suddenly collapse, but if you do, call 911 and push hard and fast in the center of the chest. Don’t be afraid. Your actions can only help. Take a minute and look around this site and invite your friends! Increasing the number of people who know about Hands-OnlyTM CPR will increase the chance that someone can help when an adult suddenly collapses, and more lives can be saved.

Thursday, October 15, 2009

TODAY, October 15, 20094:30pm -- 9:30pmFee: Free event and open to the publicLocation:Mighty Fortress International Ministries6400 85th Avenue North Brooklyn Park, MN 55445

Plan to join us Thursday, October 15th at the Power To End Gospel Tour Celebration with Lexi of The Word Network and singer Dottie Peoples.

Join hundreds in celebration with local gospel choirs hosted by celebrity Lexi of The Word Network and national gospel singer Dottie Peoples to raise awareness about the risk factors and warning signs of stroke—the No. 3 killer. The event is sponsored by HealthPartners and Regions Hospital.

This unique health exposition also features health screenings and complimentary informational brochures and giveaways. This event is free and open to the public.

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Jo DeBruycker, a long-time volunteer with American Heart Association and current vice chair of the State Advocacy Committee, recently met with Sen. Amy Klobuchar in Willmar. Jo provided Sen. Klobuchar a Red Dress Pin, an icon of the Go Red Movement, and thanked her for co-sponsoring the HEART for Women Act.

You're the Cure

The American Heart Association is always looking for committed and active advocates -- like you-- to join our You're the Cure advocacy network. This group of volunteers contacts their elected officials to help pass important heart-healthy policies in their state and across the nation.